Despite critical backlash, the biopic ‘Michael’ has achieved unprecedented box office success since its release on May 3, 2026. The film has grossed an astounding $97 million in its opening weekend, setting a record for music biopics and surpassing previous milestones.
The immediate numbers tell a compelling story. ‘Michael’ has not only beaten the previous record held by ‘Straight Outta Compton’, which earned $60.2 million in 2015, but it also broke the all-time record for general biopics previously held by ‘Oppenheimer’, which grossed $82.4 million in 2023. Overall, the film has now crossed $400 million worldwide.
That context matters because it highlights a significant divide between public reception and critical reviews. Critics have largely panned the film, accusing it of whitewashing Michael Jackson’s life and glossing over serious allegations against him. Yet, audiences seem to resonate with the film’s portrayal of Jackson’s early years in the music industry.
Key elements of the film:
- The narrative spans from 1966 through 1988, ending five years before the first allegations of sexual abuse against Jackson surfaced.
- The final version focuses on Jackson’s music and his tumultuous relationship with his father.
- Spike Lee praised the film, arguing that critics are unfairly fixated on events beyond its timeline.
But why do audiences love it? Perhaps it’s because they see an intimate portrait of a musical icon—one that resonates with their memories and emotions. Colman Domingo described it as an intimate portrayal of who Michael truly was.
Interestingly, while many critics have expressed their discontent, some believe the film’s success could lead to a sequel that might address Jackson’s allegations more directly. However, no official statements have confirmed this possibility yet. The reality is that despite negative reviews from major publications, ‘Michael’ continues to thrive at the box office.